A shoulder injection is administered by a trained physician who carefully inserts a needle into the shoulder joint space to deliver a medication, typically a corticosteroid and/or a local anesthetic for pain relief.
The process generally involves the following:
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Consultation and Assessment: Your doctor will first assess your shoulder pain to determine if an injection is the right treatment option. This may involve a physical exam and reviewing your medical history.
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Preparation: The area around the injection site (your shoulder) will be cleaned with an antiseptic solution to minimize the risk of infection.
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Needle Insertion: The physician, based on their training and preference, will approach the shoulder from the front, side, or back. They will carefully insert the needle into the joint space or the subacromial space (the space between the acromion bone and the rotator cuff tendons). The exact location depends on the target of the injection.
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Injection: Once the needle is correctly positioned, the medication (usually a corticosteroid, a local anesthetic, or a combination of both) is injected.
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Post-Injection Care: After the injection, a bandage is applied. You may be advised to rest your shoulder for a short period and avoid strenuous activities for a day or two.
Key Considerations:
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Different Approaches: The specific angle and location of the needle insertion can vary based on the physician's experience and the specific condition being treated.
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Ultrasound Guidance: In some cases, ultrasound imaging may be used to guide the needle placement, ensuring accurate delivery of the medication to the targeted area. This is particularly helpful for deeper or more difficult-to-reach areas.
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Possible Side Effects: While generally safe, shoulder injections can have potential side effects, such as pain at the injection site, temporary flare-up of pain, skin discoloration, or, rarely, infection. Discuss potential risks with your doctor.
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Pain Relief: While providing pain relief, steroid injections generally do not fix underlying conditions. They are often used in conjunction with physical therapy and other treatments.
